Drove 10 hrs to see/test quartzite slabs - still can’t decide
Here are my two options (labeled A and B). Both Mont Blanc / Mountain White quartzites at different stone yards.
Neither yard allowed testing, but I did get a sample of option B to take home. It showed rapid water absorption (did not do the dunk test but just rinsing the sample under running water led to absorption at cut edges). No etching from AC vinegar. Stained when Sriracha was left overnight. Sample was unsealed. I was ok with the results but not thrilled. Had option B not absorbed water so quickly, I would pick it.
If I go with option B, they will seal all cut edges with Stain Proof sealer on site. Will this significantly help with the water absorption issue?
Option A is sealed at the factory (I believe w Tenax). I prefer the look of option A, and it is less expensive. The fabricator for option A also commits to standing behind their work if it shows unusual staining/water damage, whereas the fabricator for option B has avoided making such a commitment, saying they cannot guarantee the performance of the stone (unlike option A, the fabricator for option B does not own the stone - they purchase it on my behalf from a stoneyard).
Which would you choose?
Comments (13)
J E
3 years agoRelated Discussions
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Rachel
3 years agodan1888
3 years agoJ E
3 years agoI forgot to add, I did the glass test on sample B and it scratched the glass easily.
I can’t say for sure that Option A is not a quartzite since I could not test, but given the research I’ve done on Mont Blanc, it’s likely to have some properties of marble with respect to staining and etching (both of which I can live with).
What I do not want is the softness of marble - the propensity to chip. I also do not want major water staining at edges, seams and cutouts. Since I can’t test Option A, I can’t know for sure how it will perform in this regard. So I’m taking the risk with eyes open.
I really love the stone and hope it works out. Here is a close up against my cabinets and backsplash (island will be grey, perimeter white)
Rachel
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